Centennial teacher named Golden Apple finalist

ALBUQUERQUE - Melody Hagaman, a teacher at Centennial High School, is among 16 teachers from seven communities across the state being recognized as finalists for the 2017 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Each year, Golden Apple Foundation of New Mexico honors outstanding teachers for their exceptional work in helping students learn, think and create. Recipients of the award receive several benefits, including induction into the Golden Apple Academy of Fellows, a generous professional development fund, and a cash prize, according to a news release from the foundation. Nominated by their communities and selected through a rigorous application process, these teachers will be receiving site visits from the Golden Apple selection committee over the next several weeks to determine the seven recipients.

“Reaching this phase in the selection process is a real accomplishment," says Golden Apple Executive Director Brian O'Connell. "These teachers deserve all the recognition they can get, and it will be very competitive to select the seven eventual recipients. While not every finalist can be selected, we hope this process highlights some of the truly first-rate educators in our communities."

Recipients of the award will be announced in November, the release stated. To nominate a teacher for next year’s middle school level award, visit goldenapplenm.org.